The Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (CPT) has expressed “huge concern” about the treatment of international coach operations in the event that the UK leaves the EU without a deal and says important questions remain unanswered.
Commenting on papers published by the Government on 24 September Steven Salmon, CPT’s Director of Policy Development says: “CPT is extremely disappointed that the Government has not seen fit to ensure that passenger movements into and across Europe can continue if we leave the EU without a deal.
“I have been discussing the implications of Brexit on our members who operate coach holidays and tours, educational trips and intercity services into Europe for many months and very much regret that the Government has taken this position.”
“A number of important questions remain unanswered in the no-deal scenario, such as whether British coach drivers will need working visas or work permits.
“We will continue to engage at the highest level with officials up to 29 March next year, and beyond.
“CPT supports the Government in its efforts to reach a deal with the EU which will enable our members to continue to trade and offer the services their passengers currently enjoy.”
In the papers, the government says that preparations for a no-deal scenario must be “accelerated”. It adds that, if no deal is reached, it is possible that UK operators may not be able to rely on automatic recognition by the EU of UK-issued community licences, although individual countries may choose to accept them.
The UK’s participation in the Interbus agreement by virtue of being part of the EU would also cease. However, the UK intends to rejoin as an independent member and have that in place from 29 March 2018. That would allow occasional services into the EU to continue to operate.
UK nationals will still be able to drive in the EU after the UK leaves. However, they may require an International Driving Permit.
The papers also confirm that the UK will retain the Transport Manager CPC and Driver CPC schemes after leaving the EU. When the UK joins the Interbus agreement, UK drivers with a Driver CPC will be able to work in the EU. Should there be a delay to the UK becoming part of Interbus, EU countries may choose to continue to recognise UK-issued DCPCs, but that cannot be guaranteed, says the technical note.